If you love the vibrant flavors of a classic shrimp scampi but are craving something cozy and utterly satisfying, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. Imagine layers of tender lasagna noodles enveloped in a dreamy, garlicky butter sauce, generously studded with perfectly cooked shrimp, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella, all kissed with a refreshing hint of lemon. Every bite is a delightful balance of richness and brightness, transforming the beloved shrimp scampi into a luscious, comforting lasagna that feels both elegant and homey.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the buttery garlic base that infuses the shrimp, to the creamy cheeses that make the layers irresistibly gooey, these are the essentials that bring this dish to life.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Provides a rich, flavorful base for the garlic and shrimp.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds that signature aromatic punch that defines a scampi sauce.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, bringing sweetness and a tender bite.
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: A gentle kick of heat that enhances without overpowering.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, velvety sauce texture.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth of flavor and thins the sauce just right.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Imparts a fresh citrus aroma.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens the sauce with zesty tang.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances and brings out the natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle spice and complexity.
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained: The hearty structure for layering all the goodness.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Offers creaminess and a mild tang that contrasts beautifully.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly for an irresistible gooey texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharp, nutty flavor to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: A pop of fresh green and gentle herbaceous note for garnish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Prevents sticking when layering and adds a subtle fruity undertone.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Garlic and Shrimp
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat to create a rich foundation. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant – this moment releases the magical aroma that sets the tone for the entire dish. Next, toss in the shrimp seasoned with crushed red pepper flakes, cooking until they turn a perfect pink. This quick sauté infuses the shrimp with that irresistible garlicky heat, so don’t rush this step.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Scampi Sauce
With the shrimp removed and resting, deglaze the skillet by pouring in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in lemon zest and fresh lemon juice for brightness, then season with salt and black pepper. Let the sauce gently simmer until it thickens slightly, which intensifies the flavors and begins building a luscious sauce base.
Step 3: Enhance the Sauce with Cheese
To the warm sauce, fold in ricotta cheese until it’s smoothly combined, creating a creamy texture that clings wonderfully to every noodle. Add shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, stirring until melted and silky. The cheese melds into the sauce perfectly, transforming it into a rich, indulgent layer for the lasagna.
Step 4: Combine Shrimp with Sauce
Return the shrimp to the skillet, folding them gently into the cheesy sauce. This ensures every bite has that signature seafood flavor embraced by the creamy garlic butter mixture. Set the skillet aside to let the flavors marry while you move on to assembling the lasagna.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna Layers
Drizzle olive oil into the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking and add subtle flavor. Spread a thin layer of the shrimp sauce to start, then lay down a layer of cooked lasagna noodles. Build up layers alternating noodles, the shrimp sauce mixture, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese, making sure to finish with a generous topping of mozzarella for that irresistible golden crust.
Step 6: Bake the Lasagna
Cover the dish with foil to trap moisture and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes, letting all the flavors meld deliciously. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes so the cheese bubbles and develops a gorgeous golden color. Let it rest briefly out of the oven—this helps the layers set for cleaner slicing.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh herbal notes that brighten every bite. This final step turns an already stunning dish into a meal you’re proud to share.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a classic and effective garnish that not only sprinkles vibrant green but also adds a subtle aromatic lift to the rich, cheesy lasagna. For an extra touch, a light drizzle of good quality olive oil right before serving can enhance the flavor and give the top a glossy finish.
Side Dishes
Serve this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for balance. Lightly steamed asparagus or wilted spinach tossed in garlic make excellent companions, cutting through the richness and complementing the seafood flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider serving individual portions in small ramekins or mini casserole dishes. You can even turn the extra shrimp and sauce into a pasta dish to enjoy alongside the lasagna, giving guests a taste of both comforting classics in one meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover lasagna tastes incredible the next day as the flavors deepen. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to preserve the texture of the noodles and sauce.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish either pre- or post-baking. For best results, assemble and freeze before baking, tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it covered and then uncover to finish browning.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to keep moisture, for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the noodles rubbery and the cheese unevenly melted.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the sauce, which can thin it out.
Is it necessary to precook the lasagna noodles?
Yes, precooking the noodles ensures they become tender inside the dish without drying out during the bake, providing the perfect texture with the sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
While traditionally made with cheeses and cream, you can substitute dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream and vegan cheeses, though the flavor and texture will differ from the classic version.
How spicy is this dish?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild kick that can easily be adjusted to your liking. Leave them out for a gentler flavor or add more if you love heat.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! Assemble the lasagna a day before and keep it refrigerated. Just add extra baking time if baking straight from the fridge, and allow it to come to room temperature before baking for the best results.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe is a delightful twist on two beloved dishes, merging the fresh, zesty flavors of shrimp scampi with the comforting layers of classic lasagna. It’s perfect for impressing friends, organizing family dinners, or simply treating yourself to a luxurious homemade meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with this unique, mouthwatering creation as much as I have!
Print
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A decadent Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna combining tender, garlicky shrimp in a creamy lemon-infused sauce layered between tender lasagna noodles and rich cheeses, baked to golden perfection. This fusion dish brings together the irresistible flavors of shrimp scampi and classic Italian lasagna into one delicious and comforting meal.
Ingredients
Sauce and Shrimp
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Lasagna Components
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant to build the flavor base of the sauce.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through.
- Set Shrimp Aside: Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate to prevent overcooking while you prepare the sauce.
- Prepare Sauce Base: Pour heavy cream and chicken broth into the same skillet, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
- Add Lemon and Seasonings: Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to infuse the sauce with bright citrus and seasoning.
- Simmer Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, creating a creamy base.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Stir in ricotta cheese until smooth, then add shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, stirring until all cheeses melt fully and the sauce becomes rich and creamy.
- Return Shrimp to Sauce: Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and stir to coat them evenly with the creamy garlic butter sauce, then remove the skillet from heat.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Noodles: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil the lasagna noodles in salted water according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Drizzle olive oil in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Layer Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the shrimp sauce on the bottom of the dish. Arrange a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping slightly.
- Add Sauce and Cheese Layers: Spread a portion of the shrimp and sauce mixture evenly over the noodles, then top with dollops of ricotta cheese followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering noodles, shrimp sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese on top for a bubbly golden crust.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes to brown the cheese topping until golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before sprinkling with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, then serve.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are cooked just until pink to avoid rubbery texture after baking.
- Cook lasagna noodles until al dente to prevent sogginess in the final dish.
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best bright flavor in the sauce.
- Cover the lasagna with foil during initial baking to retain moisture and then uncover to brown cheese.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and gently reheated in the oven.
